California, in the western U.S., is the “Golden State,” a reference to its historic Gold Rush and its sunny, golden climate. With 39 million residents, it is the most populous state. The capital, Sacramento, lies in the northern part of the state, while Los Angeles, its largest city, is known worldwide for its entertainment industry and sprawling metropolitan area.
10 Largest Cities in California
1. Los Angeles (California)
City Facts
- County: Los Angeles County
- Area: 503 square miles
- Population: 3,898,747 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 213, 323, 310, 818, others
- Zip Codes: 90001-90089, 90189
- Latitude: 34.052235
- Longitude: -118.243683
Location and History:
Los Angeles is located in Southern California, along the Pacific coast, and is the largest city in the state. Founded in 1781 by Spanish settlers, it was originally a small pueblo called El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles. The discovery of oil in the late 19th century and the establishment of the film industry in Hollywood during the early 20th century propelled Los Angeles into a global city. Today, L.A. is known for its entertainment industry, vibrant cultural diversity, and its role as a major hub for international trade, technology, and fashion. The city’s Mediterranean climate and iconic landmarks make it one of the most visited cities in the world.
Major Landmarks:
- Hollywood Sign: Iconic symbol of the film industry, located in the Hollywood Hills.
- Griffith Observatory: A popular attraction offering views of the city and the stars.
- Getty Center: A world-class art museum with a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): The largest art museum in the western United States.
Major Highways:
Los Angeles is crisscrossed by a vast network of highways. Interstate 5 (I-5) runs north-south through the city, connecting it to San Diego in the south and Sacramento in the north. Interstate 10 (I-10) is a major east-west route connecting L.A. to Phoenix and beyond. Interstate 405 (I-405) serves as a key north-south corridor through the western part of the city. Other major highways include U.S. Route 101, State Route 110, and Interstate 710. The freeway system supports the city’s sprawling nature and is crucial for connecting Los Angeles to surrounding counties and regions.
2. San Diego (California)
City Facts
- County: San Diego County
- Area: 372.42 square miles
- Population: 1,381,611 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 619, 858
- Zip Codes: 92101-92199
- Latitude: 32.715736
- Longitude: -117.161087
Location and History:
San Diego is located in Southern California, near the Mexico border along the Pacific coast. The city was established in 1769 as the first European settlement in California, beginning as a Spanish mission. It remained a small community until the late 19th century when the railroad arrived and military bases were established. Today, San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, naval base, and biotechnology industry. It’s also recognized for its tourism and cultural attractions, including Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The city has a mild year-round climate, making it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.
Major Landmarks:
- Balboa Park: A massive urban park that houses museums, gardens, theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.
- USS Midway Museum: A historic aircraft carrier that now serves as a museum.
- Cabrillo National Monument: A park offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and commemorating the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542.
- Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Preserves the city’s early history, with museums, shops, and restored buildings.
Major Highways:
San Diego is served by several major highways, including Interstate 5 (I-5), which runs north-south through the city, connecting it to Los Angeles and Tijuana, Mexico. Interstate 8 (I-8) runs east-west, linking the city to Arizona. Interstate 15 (I-15) is another north-south route that connects San Diego to the Inland Empire and Las Vegas. State Route 163 provides access to the downtown area, and Interstate 805 serves as a bypass to I-5, facilitating local traffic. These highways are crucial for San Diego’s regional connectivity and military presence.
3. San Jose (California)
City Facts
- County: Santa Clara County
- Area: 180.52 square miles
- Population: 1,013,240 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 408, 669
- Zip Codes: 95101-95196
- Latitude: 37.338208
- Longitude: -121.886329
Location and History:
San Jose is located in Northern California’s Silicon Valley, just south of San Francisco Bay. Founded in 1777, it was California’s first civilian settlement and briefly served as the state capital in the mid-1800s. San Jose’s agricultural roots earned it the nickname “The Valley of Heart’s Delight” due to its vast orchards. However, the city transformed into a global center for technology and innovation with the rise of Silicon Valley in the 20th century. Home to many tech giants like Cisco Systems and Adobe, San Jose is a thriving metropolis driven by the technology industry.
Major Landmarks:
- Tech Interactive: A hands-on science and technology museum that reflects the city’s tech industry.
- Winchester Mystery House: A famous historic mansion known for its architectural oddities and supposed hauntings.
- San Jose Museum of Art: Featuring contemporary and modern art with an emphasis on West Coast artists.
- SAP Center: A multi-purpose arena, home to the NHL’s San Jose Sharks.
Major Highways:
San Jose is connected by several major highways, including Interstate 280, which runs northwest to San Francisco. Interstate 880 provides a north-south route to Oakland, while U.S. Route 101 is a major north-south corridor that runs through the city, connecting it to San Francisco and Los Angeles. State Route 87 and State Route 85 are vital for local traffic, providing access to the downtown area and nearby tech campuses. These highways support San Jose’s role as a central hub in Silicon Valley.
4. San Francisco (California)
City Facts
- County: San Francisco County
- Area: 46.89 square miles
- Population: 815,201 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 415, 628
- Zip Codes: 94102-94188
- Latitude: 37.774929
- Longitude: -122.419418
Location and History:
San Francisco, located on the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, is one of California’s most iconic cities. Founded in 1776 by Spanish settlers, it became a boomtown during the California Gold Rush of 1849. Its deep-water port and central location along the Pacific Coast helped it grow into a major economic center. San Francisco is known for its fog, steep hills, and eclectic culture, along with its history as a center for counterculture and civil rights movements. Despite natural disasters like the 1906 earthquake, San Francisco rebuilt and became a global city, known for its financial sector, technology industry, and tourism.
Major Landmarks:
- Golden Gate Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in the world, connecting San Francisco to Marin County.
- Alcatraz Island: A historic former federal prison located in San Francisco Bay.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: A popular waterfront area known for its seafood restaurants and views of the bay.
- Coit Tower: An art deco tower offering panoramic views of the city and home to murals depicting life in California during the Great Depression.
Major Highways:
San Francisco is connected by U.S. Route 101, which runs through the city and across the Golden Gate Bridge, providing access to Marin County. Interstate 280 links San Francisco to San Jose, while Interstate 80 begins in San Francisco and runs eastward across the Bay Bridge toward Oakland and beyond. State Route 1 runs along the coast, providing scenic access to the Pacific Ocean and nearby coastal towns. The city’s compact geography and proximity to bridges make highways essential for connecting it to the broader Bay Area.
5. Fresno (California)
City Facts
- County: Fresno County
- Area: 116.42 square miles
- Population: 545,769 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 559
- Zip Codes: 93650, 93701-93779
- Latitude: 36.737798
- Longitude: -119.787125
Location and History:
Fresno is located in California’s Central Valley, one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. Founded in 1872 as a railway station along the Central Pacific Railroad, Fresno quickly grew due to its fertile soil and the agricultural boom that followed. By the early 20th century, it had become a major hub for grape, cotton, and citrus farming. Over time, Fresno developed into the largest city in the Central Valley, serving as the economic and cultural center for the region. The city’s proximity to national parks like Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia also makes it a gateway to outdoor recreation.
Major Landmarks:
- Forestiere Underground Gardens: A network of underground tunnels and gardens built by Sicilian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere.
- Fresno Chaffee Zoo: A popular zoo featuring a wide variety of animals and habitats.
- Save Mart Center: A large arena hosting concerts, sporting events, and home to Fresno State athletics.
- Woodward Park: A large urban park offering walking trails, a Japanese garden, and open spaces for outdoor activities.
Major Highways:
Fresno is intersected by State Route 99, which runs north-south through the Central Valley, connecting the city to Bakersfield and Sacramento. State Route 41 runs northward, providing access to Yosemite National Park, while State Route 180 connects Fresno to Kings Canyon National Park. State Route 168 provides a route to the Sierra Nevada foothills. These highways make Fresno a critical transportation hub for both agriculture and tourism in the region.
6. Sacramento (California)
City Facts
- County: Sacramento County
- Area: 99.77 square miles
- Population: 530,706 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 916, 279
- Zip Codes: 94203-95899
- Latitude: 38.581572
- Longitude: -121.494400
Location and History:
Sacramento, the capital of California, is located in the northern part of the Central Valley at the confluence of the Sacramento and American Rivers. Established in 1848, it grew rapidly during the California Gold Rush. The city’s location made it a key hub for transportation and trade, particularly with the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869. Sacramento has served as the political center of California since it became the state capital in 1854. Today, the city’s economy is diverse, driven by government, healthcare, and education, while its historic districts and cultural institutions reflect its rich history.
Major Landmarks:
- California State Capitol: A neoclassical building housing the state government, featuring tours and a museum.
- Old Sacramento State Historic Park: A preserved area of historic buildings from the Gold Rush era, including museums and shops.
- Crocker Art Museum: One of the oldest art museums in the Western U.S., featuring California art and European masterpieces.
- American River Parkway: A 32-mile-long parkway offering trails, fishing, and kayaking along the American River.
Major Highways:
Sacramento is connected by Interstate 5, which runs north-south, connecting the city to Southern California and Oregon. Interstate 80 runs east-west, linking Sacramento to San Francisco and Reno, Nevada. U.S. Route 50 provides an eastward route toward South Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada. State Route 99 is a major north-south route through the Central Valley. These highways make Sacramento a key transportation center for Northern California.
7. Long Beach (California)
City Facts
- County: Los Angeles County
- Area: 80.35 square miles
- Population: 466,742 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 562, 424
- Zip Codes: 90745-90899
- Latitude: 33.770050
- Longitude: -118.193739
Location and History:
Long Beach is located on the Pacific coast in Southern California, south of downtown Los Angeles. Established in the late 19th century as a seaside resort town, Long Beach quickly grew into a major port city with the development of the Port of Long Beach, one of the busiest ports in the world. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century spurred further growth, transforming the city into a center for industry and shipping. Today, Long Beach is known for its diverse economy, which includes aerospace, shipping, and tourism, as well as for its cultural attractions and vibrant waterfront.
Major Landmarks:
- The Queen Mary: A historic ocean liner that is now a floating hotel and museum.
- Aquarium of the Pacific: A large aquarium featuring marine life from the Pacific Ocean.
- Long Beach Convention Center: A major venue for conventions, concerts, and other events.
- Naples Island: A picturesque neighborhood with canals and gondola rides, reminiscent of Venice, Italy.
Major Highways:
Long Beach is served by several major highways, including Interstate 405, which runs north-south and connects the city to Los Angeles and Orange County. Interstate 710 runs from Long Beach northward to Los Angeles, providing access to the Port of Long Beach. State Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) runs through the city, providing a scenic coastal route. Interstate 605 offers a connection to the eastern suburbs. These highways support Long Beach’s role as a major transportation and shipping hub.
8. Oakland (California)
City Facts
- County: Alameda County
- Area: 77.86 square miles
- Population: 440,646 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 510, 341
- Zip Codes: 94601-94666
- Latitude: 37.804363
- Longitude: -122.271111
Location and History:
Oakland is located in the San Francisco Bay Area, directly across the bay from San Francisco. Founded in 1852, Oakland developed as a transportation and industrial center due to its proximity to the railroads and its natural deep-water port. The city became a major hub for shipbuilding and manufacturing during World War II. In the post-war years, Oakland experienced significant cultural and demographic shifts, becoming a center for African American culture and activism, including the rise of the Black Panther Party in the 1960s. Today, Oakland is known for its diverse population, arts scene, and tech startups, as well as its busy port.
Major Landmarks:
- Oakland Museum of California: A museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural science of California.
- Lake Merritt: A tidal lagoon and urban park at the heart of the city, offering boating, jogging, and birdwatching.
- Fox Theater: A restored historic theater that hosts concerts and performances.
- Jack London Square: A waterfront entertainment district named after the famous author, featuring restaurants, shops, and events.
Major Highways:
Oakland is a key transportation hub, connected by Interstate 580, which runs east-west, linking the city to the Central Valley and Livermore. Interstate 880 runs north-south along the waterfront, connecting Oakland to San Jose. Interstate 980 provides access to downtown Oakland, while Interstate 80 connects the city to San Francisco via the Bay Bridge and continues eastward to Sacramento. State Route 24 links Oakland to the inland East Bay and beyond. These highways are vital for the city’s connectivity to the Bay Area and Northern California.
9. Bakersfield (California)
City Facts
- County: Kern County
- Area: 151.21 square miles
- Population: 409,227 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 661
- Zip Codes: 93301-93390
- Latitude: 35.373292
- Longitude: -119.018713
Location and History:
Bakersfield is located in California’s southern Central Valley, known as the San Joaquin Valley. Founded in 1869, it grew as an agricultural town, supported by the nearby Kern River. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed Bakersfield into a major oil-producing city, with large oil fields still operating today. The city is also known for its contributions to country music, particularly the Bakersfield Sound, which emerged in the 1950s. Today, Bakersfield’s economy is based on agriculture, oil, and transportation, with a growing presence in manufacturing and logistics due to its central location in the state.
Major Landmarks:
- Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: A music venue and museum dedicated to the country music legend Buck Owens and the Bakersfield Sound.
- Kern County Museum: A historical museum featuring exhibits on the region’s oil, agriculture, and music history.
- Rabobank Arena: A large venue hosting concerts, sporting events, and conventions.
- California Living Museum (CALM): A zoo and botanical garden showcasing native California animals and plants.
Major Highways:
Bakersfield is located along State Route 99, a major north-south highway running through the Central Valley, connecting the city to Fresno and Sacramento. State Route 58 runs east-west, linking Bakersfield to Mojave and Barstow, providing access to Interstate 15. Interstate 5 is located to the west of Bakersfield and serves as the main north-south route for travel between Southern and Northern California. State Route 178 offers a route to the Sierra Nevada and Lake Isabella. These highways make Bakersfield a crucial transportation and logistics hub in the Central Valley.
10. Anaheim (California)
City Facts
- County: Orange County
- Area: 50.88 square miles
- Population: 349,964 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 657, 714
- Zip Codes: 92801-92899
- Latitude: 33.836593
- Longitude: -117.914301
Location and History:
Anaheim is located in Orange County, in Southern California, southeast of Los Angeles. Founded in 1857 by German immigrants, Anaheim initially developed as an agricultural community, particularly known for its vineyards. The city’s transformation came in the mid-20th century with the opening of Disneyland in 1955, which made Anaheim a global tourist destination. The city has since grown into a major center for tourism, sports, and entertainment, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Anaheim’s proximity to Los Angeles and its attractions make it one of the most visited cities in California.
Major Landmarks:
- Disneyland Resort: One of the most famous theme parks in the world, featuring Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.
- Angel Stadium of Anaheim: Home to the MLB’s Los Angeles Angels, hosting baseball games and concerts.
- Honda Center: An indoor arena, home to the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks and a venue for concerts and events.
- Anaheim Packing District: A historic area converted into a vibrant food hall and community space.
Major Highways:
Anaheim is intersected by several major highways, including Interstate 5, which runs north-south through the city, connecting it to Los Angeles and San Diego. State Route 91 is a major east-west highway that provides access to Riverside and the Inland Empire. State Route 57 runs north-south, connecting Anaheim to Orange and Pomona. These highways are vital for connecting Anaheim to the broader Southern California region and supporting its tourism and entertainment industries.